| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1971 |
| Production Years: | 1971 - 1979 discontinued in 1979 |
The Renault 15 is a classic coupe produced by the French automaker Renault from 1971 to 1979. As a sport-oriented two-door vehicle, the Renault 15 offered a stylish alternative in the compact coupe segment during the 1970s. Characterized by its distinctive angular design and sporty lines, it was closely related mechanically to the Renault 12 but featured a more dynamic and sport-focused body style.
In terms of dimensions, the Renault 15 coupe measured approximately 4.3 meters (169 inches) in length, providing a compact footprint suitable for agile city driving and spirited road experiences. The vehicle's width was around 1.64 meters (64.5 inches), offering a stable stance and comfortable interior space for a couple or small family. The height was approximately 1.32 meters (52 inches), giving the car a sleek profile with a low roofline, accentuating its coupe styling.
Under the hood, the Renault 15 featured a range of inline-4 engines that balanced performance with efficiency, appealing to buyers interested in both style and practicality. The coupe delivered a light and nimble driving experience thanks to its relatively low weight, which contributed to its performance and handling dynamics.
Produced between 1971 and 1979, the Renault 15 is remembered fondly by enthusiasts for its blend of French design flair, practical dimensions, and sporty characteristics. While sharing many mechanical components with the Renault 12 saloon, the 15's coupe body style set it apart, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a distinctive classic coupe from the 1970s era. Its size makes it comparable to other compact coupes of the time, striking a balance between everyday usability and engaging driving dynamics.
Discover the standout features that make the 1971 Renault 15 a leader in its class
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The Renault 15 coupe produced from 1971 to 1979 has a length of approximately 4,270 mm (168 inches), a width of about 1,630 mm (64 inches), and a height close to 1,320 mm (52 inches). These compact dimensions reflect the design trends of early 1970s European coupes, prioritizing a sporty shape with relatively compact footprints suited for city and highway driving.
The curb weight of the Renault 15 typically ranges around 1,000 to 1,100 kg (2,205 to 2,425 lbs), depending on engine choice and specific trim. This relatively light weight for a coupe of its size contributes to nimble handling and reasonable fuel efficiency for its time, enabling the car to accelerate responsively while maintaining balanced road dynamics.
Standard residential garage dimensions generally range from 2,400 mm to 3,000 mm (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and about 5,500 mm (18 feet) in depth. With the Renault 15 measuring approximately 4,270 mm (168 inches) in length and 1,630 mm (64 inches) in width, it easily fits into most standard garages with ample room for opening doors and additional storage, making it practical for everyday use.
The Renault 15 is designed as a 2+2 coupe, meaning it seats four passengers with two front bucket seats and a rear bench suitable for two smaller occupants. While exact interior dimensions are less commonly documented, the compact exterior footprint means rear passenger space is limited, making it best suited for occasional use rather than full-size adult comfort in the back.
The Renault 15 offers a modest trunk space typical of coupes from the 1970s. Its hatchback-style rear allows for flexible cargo loading, with a trunk volume estimated around 300 liters (10.6 cubic feet). While smaller than larger sedans or station wagons, this capacity is practical for daily errands and weekend trips, and is competitive within its class of sporty compact coupes.
With a width of approximately 1,630 mm (64 inches) and a height of about 1,320 mm (52 inches), the Renault 15 has a relatively slim and low profile. This narrow width facilitates maneuverability in tight urban environments and eases parking in narrow spaces. Its low height contributes to a sporty stance and reduced aerodynamic drag, enhancing driving dynamics.
The Renault 15 is based on the Renault 12 platform but features a sportier coupe body style. While both share similar mechanical layouts, the Renault 15 is slightly longer and lower, with an emphasis on stylish design and sportiness compared to the more practical four-door Renault 12 sedan and wagon. The 15's dimensions lean towards a sleek profile with reduced rear passenger space, showcasing a clear shift towards sport coupe aesthetics.
Compared to contemporaries like the Ford Capri or Alfa Romeo GT Junior, the Renault 15 is similar in length and width but generally lighter, emphasizing agility over outright performance. Its dimensions make it competitive in the sporty compact coupe segment, balancing everyday usability and sporty styling. Unlike some competitors, the Renault 15 features a hatchback rear, offering a versatile cargo area uncommon in coupes of that time.
The Renault 15 typically features a fuel tank capacity of approximately 45 liters (11.9 US gallons). Fuel efficiency varies by engine variant, but on average, the car achieves around 8 to 10 liters per 100 kilometers (23.5 to 29.4 miles per gallon US), reflecting the engineering standards and fuel economy technologies available in the early 1970s, making it reasonably efficient for its class.
Throughout its production from 1971 to 1979, the Renault 15 saw several updates, including engine improvements like the introduction of the more powerful 1.6L engines in later models and cosmetic changes to grilles, lights, and trim for a refreshed look. Mechanically, suspension and braking systems were adjusted incrementally to enhance handling and safety, while the overall styling kept its distinctive sporty coupe character.
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